Everyone loves to snuggle with a soft teddy bear, so it's no wonder the bear has been a symbol of this comfort for years. Build-a-Bear company believes in human compassion and helping others less fortunate.

Most of us are aware of the Build-a-Bear Workshop retail store where the young and not-so-young are given all the materials needed in order to build their own teddy bear. Hundreds of choices are yours, for clothing and accessories, when you build you very own bear in the retail shop. For lots of fun you might want to even consider throwing a birthday party, where everyone can build their very own bear.

Partnering with charities helps Build-a-Bear Workshop to help others participate and be encouraged to donate to the charity. Charities have learned that by offering a premium as a thank you gift often increases response to requests for donations.

Habitat for Humanity

Habitat for Humanity International if one of the charities that Build-A Bear partners with. A Christian-based organization, Habitat for Humanity builds new home, or fixes up old ones, for low income families. The homes are sold with no interest charged and at no profit. The material to build is supplied through donations, and volunteers come and do the physical work.

There was even a teddy bear named "Sawyer" built by the bear workshop that was inspired by the saws and tools used to renovate the homes. Sawyer is a golden bear filled with beans to make him huggable, and the 12 inch bear is sent to people who donate to the cause. He even wears a red t-shirt that reads, "Home Sweet Home" on the front. It appears that the birth of Sawyer has increased the response to direct solicitations for donations. Sawyer is meant to remind the donor of the love and compassion they are showing by helping to bring needed shelter to children and their families.

It's All About Saving the Children

Save the Children is the latest charity that has partnered with the company to raise funds for children. David Archuleta, from American Idol, contributed his song, "Let's talk About Love", which was written especially for Build-a-Bear.

Children are encouraged to help this latest fund raiser by signing onto the Build-a-Bear website and donating $1 to the "Love,Hugs,Peace" fund raiser. Earlier in the year each donor received a free download of “Let's Talk About Love.” and more than 38,000 young bear lovers downloaded the song in the first three weeks. You can also find a t-shirt offered by Build-a-Bear, that has the words, "Love,Hugs, Peace" written on the front. Build-a-Bear also donates 25 cents from the sale of each t-shirt sold.

Charity does begin at home, and Build-a-Bear Workshop wants people to remember this and help those who are not as fortunate. Build-a-Bear Workshop need donors to help them help those that are less fortunate.

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